Meaning, origin, history
Madison is a charming and popular first name for girls, originated from the United States. It has gained worldwide recognition in recent years due to its appealing sound and meaning. The name Madison comes from an English surname that is derived from the Old English word 'mad', which means 'wide or broad', and 'ford', referring to a shallow place where water flows across land.
The name Madison was initially used as a male given name, but it gained popularity as a female given name in the late 20th century. It was popularized by several celebrities choosing this name for their daughters, such as actresses Madonna and Alyssa Milano, and singer Mariah Carey.
Madison is often associated with intelligence, creativity, and ambition. The name has been popular among parents who wish to give their daughters a strong and independent name that reflects their unique qualities. It is also often chosen for its timeless appeal and its ability to pair well with many different middle names.
Today, Madison is considered a classic yet modern name that continues to be favored by parents around the world. It is particularly popular in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. According to data from the Social Security Administration, Madison has consistently ranked among the top 10 most popular names for girls in the United States since 2000.
In conclusion, Madison is a beautiful and meaningful name with an interesting history. Its popularity can be attributed to its appealing sound, strong meaning, and association with intelligence and ambition. It is a versatile name that works well for many different personality types and continues to be a favorite among parents today.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Madison since 1880
Total births
410,184
Total since 1880
Peak year
2001
22,166 births
in 2023
5,160
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-24%
↘
vs previous 5 years